In this issue of SSAIB News we have tried to include a little of something for everyone, which has not been difficult as there is so much happening in the industry that it’s harder to decide what to leave out than what to include. It is interesting to note that many of the articles featured refer to the ‘ambiguity’ or ‘confusion’ faced by the industry as the impact of current or proposed changes starts to become apparent. Hopefully we have shed a little light on some of these issues, even if solutions to the problems they raise are not yet available.To ensure that you get the best of views and most current thinking we have drawn more heavily than usual on external contributors. The aim here is to add a range of voices and to present the issues from a range of perspectives. Mike Jay’s article considers the ‘know and unknown’ of IP systems and considers how insurers might view this development. Dr. John Porteous looks to the near future with the implementation of the 21century network. We have two excellent contributions from the Republic of Ireland, one relating to the electronic security sector, the other the fire sector. We have insights into the day in the life of an SIA assessor and, from Steve Kimber, a perspective on the changing role of the ARC. Peter Bollons looks at the fire risk assessment and how it can contribute to reducing the consequences and cost of fire. From the Police perspective, Ken Meanwell considers the contribution that private citizens and organisations might make to the ‘wider police family’ in his review on the Community Safety Accreditation Schemes. Last, but not least, David Profit tackles the WEEE Directive.
We hope you enjoy the depth and breadth of articles and thank our contributors for their efforts.